Hide Out in Missouri’s Caves and Caverns

With over 7,500 caves on record, it’s no wonder Missouri has become known as the Cave State. Whether you’re happiest exploring a subterranean wonderland or simply searching for a unique RV road trip, Missouri has plenty of fascinating geology, American history, and small-town charm to show. Here’s how to plan an RV road trip through some of Missouri’s best caves and caverns.

Five of Missouri’s Must-See Caves and Caverns

1. Meramec Caverns (Stanton, MO)

Just an hour west of St. Louis, Meramec Caverns is one of Missouri’s most iconic attractions. Carved out over millions of years by the Meramec River, this complex cavern system features seven stories of otherworldly formations. It’s also rumored to have been a hideout for the notorious outlaw Jesse James.

The largest commercial cave in the state, Meramec Caverns features colorful lighting displays, underground boat rides during high water, and the famed Wine Table. It also has its own RV park with full hookups and ziplining and canoeing nearby.

2. Onondaga Cave State Park (Leasburg, MO)

Onondaga Cave State Park is more than just a show cave – it’s an entire outdoor recreation experience with fishing, hiking, and swimming available. The cave tour takes you along a well-lit concrete path past massive stalagmites and dripping soda straws.

The park is also home to the Vilander Bluff Trail, which provides excellent views of the Meramec River. Spend the night at the state park campground with electric hookups and a dump station.

3. Mark Twain Cave (Hannibal, MO)

The boyhood home of Mark Twain, Hannibal is home to the Mark Twain Cave – the oldest show cave in Missouri. Its winding passageways inspired scenes in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. 

Take a lantern tour at Cameron Cave, part of the Mark Twain Cave complex, and explore Hannibal’s shops and museums. The nearby RV park has modern amenities and is within walking distance of the cave.

4. Bluff Dwells Cave (Noel, MO)

In Missouri’s southwest corner, near the Arkansas border, lies Bluff Dwellers Cave. This lesser-known but jaw-droppingly beautiful system was discovered in 1925. It’s named after the prehistoric Native Americans who lived at its entrance and is rich in crystal formations and fossils.

While visiting this family-owned cave, you’ll see no shortage of towering stalactites and fossils of ancient sea creatures. The quirky museum is also worth a visit. There’s no campground on site, but Noel and nearby towns like Pineville offer plenty of RV parks with river access.

5. Fantastic Caverns (Springfield, MO)

Fantastic Caverns holds the title as America’s only ride-through cave. Hop aboard a Jeep-drawn tram and relax as you explore the cave without leaving your seat – the perfect way to end your busy road trip.

A relaxing and accessible tour experience, this show cave is known for its cathedral-like chambers and gift shop with local crafts. Springfield has several well-equipped RV parks or state parks to call home for the night.

Planning Your Trip Through Missouri’s Caves

Be prepared to cover roughly 600 miles if you start in St. Louis and loop through the state. Spring through early fall provides the best weather and cave tour availability. Just be sure to book your tours and campgrounds in advance, especially if you’re planning to go during the summer.

You’ll want to pack sturdy shoes, light jackets (caves are cool year-round), and headlamps for fun. You’ll also want a good RV maintenance kit, and a new set of DuraFlap mud flaps can help keep your RV or tow rig protected while you’re on the road.

Go Underground with DuraFlap

From Jesse James’s hideout to Mark Twain’s childhood haunts, Missouri’s underground network is filled with history, science, and adventure. Get ready to roll into the depths with DuraFlap. Our American-made, high-quality mud flaps will protect your tow rig or RV from dents and dings on the road. Each set is built to order and customizable for a style that’s uniquely yours. Visit our website to learn more, then get ready to explore what lies beneath Missouri’s surface.